Christchurch city leaders (left to right) Councillor Sam MacDonald (finance and performance committee chair, Christchurch City Councillor for the Central Ward Jake McLellan, former executive director of the Christ Church Cathedral Reinstatement Trust and councillor Victoria Henstock, Central City MP Duncan Webb, and 5th term councillor James Gough. 

City leaders have expressed disappointment over the Christchurch Cathedral’s dire financial troubles.

The rebuild needs another $114 million and $30 million by August, otherwise the project will be mothballed.

On Saturday, Christ Church Cathedral Reinstatement Chair Mark Stewart issued a press release through a public relations consultancy saying “with the knowledge gained from the project review, it became apparent that continuing the original project workplan would be too expensive and represent too much risk.”

Christchurch City Central Ward Councillor Jake McLellan said it’s disappointing, but not surprising to see this project won’t meet its original budget.

“I’m not willing to make any commitments on funding at this stage. It’s important to remember that Ratepayers have already contributed to this project. However, no one wants to see this project mothballed. The Cathedral is the predominant symbol of Christchurch and people are eager to see it reinstated.

“Speaking as the Central City Councillor, I know how much confidence completing this project will give to the Square and the overall Central City.”

Councillor Sam MacDonald, who leads council’s finance and performance committee said “this is incredibly sad for the city, I feel for those like Mark Stewart who have put so much time and money into this project.

“The previous rate that was implemented prior to me being on Council was controversial but a commitment to repair the heart of our city.

“We will obviously listen to the submissions that come through during the Long Term Plan, but it won’t be a surprise to any that I think the Church will need to consider recycling assets across their portfolio in order to meet a large part of this funding gap” MacDonald said.

Councillor Victoria Henstock, a former executive director of the Christ Church Cathedral Reinstatement Trust said ”the announcement on Saturday is incredibly sad for Christchurch but not altogether surprising. Funding has always been the biggest risk to this project, and it is a real shame to have lost momentum. 

“The public’s response to Saturday’s media announcement indicates the project as it stands has lost public support. It’s such a shame because this is the heart of our city, and it still has a hole in it.

“I think the focus now needs to be on modifying the scope of the project. We need to find a way to activate this iconic space in a way that respects the cultural and spiritual heritage and public utility of the location.

“We need to work towards creating a valued space for the people of Christchurch. I’m not sure what that looks like, but I think that’s the conversation that needs to happen next” Henstock said.  

Councillor James Gough said “the Christ Church Cathedral holds profound significance for our city’s rebuild and the revitalisation of Cathedral Square.

“The prospect of mothballing it raises concerns, as it could not only convey a negative image for our city but also hinder crucial investment from international hotel operators, whose commitment to Christchurch is essential, especially given the current high occupancy levels.

“The potential mothballing of the Cathedral is deeply concerning, as it could impede the progress of our rebuild efforts and hinder the transformation of Cathedral Square into a vibrant hub for our community” Gough said.

“While recognising the importance of funding the Cathedral’s reinstatement, it’s imperative to acknowledge the financial strain on our city and its residents. The ratepayer’s resources are already stretched, meaning it would be very challenging to allocate additional funds from a city perspective.

“There are some big decisions that need to be made, and I certainly don’t envy the predicament that the Christchurch Cathedral Reinstatement Project team is having to work through.

Transparency and accountability in fund management are paramount. Every dollar allocated to the project must be utilised effectively and efficiently to maximise its impact and minimise financial risks.”

Christchurch Central MP Duncan Webb said “the Christ Church Cathedral has long been a central feature of Christchurch. 

“The public interest in the decision to reinstate the Cathedral demonstrates that it is close to the heart of many. The importance of the building was recognised when the government provided $25m in funding (along with 10m from the Christchurch City Council). 

“This was always provided on the assurance that the shortfall would be provided by other parties” Webb said.

“In government, the Labour Party had no plans to commit further funding to the Cathedral reinstatement, however this was prior to the most recent estimate of a $114m shortfall which warrants a reconsideration of the position.

“Ultimately the Cathedral will be reinstated. It is of considerable cultural significance to Canterbury, and is a heritage listed building meaning that demolition is not permitted. 

“If the works are mothballed this will increase costs, so it makes sense for the parties including the Council and Government to get together and work out a plan for progressing the reinstatement. 

“I am acutely aware of the pressure on costs, including rates, so care is needed not to place the burden too heavily on ratepayers and taxpayers. 

“While it appears that some more public money is needed, it has always been agreed that the Church and philanthropy would be the main source of funding and this should remain the case.

“Any further contributions should do no more than maintain the existing proportionality.  Ultimately this is a decision for the new government which does not have a great record in supporting the South Island; but I will be advocating for the government to reconsider funding” Webb said.